National Extends Parental Leave Amid Labour Pushback | Auckland News

National’s surprise 30-week paid parental leave proposal has ignited a firestorm, with Labour slamming them for a “serious trust problem” and clinging to “old-fashioned gender norms,” citing National’s past votes against parental leave. Labour vows to match the policy but is still finalizing costings, while MP Vanushi Walters warns women won’t forget National’s history — especially amid looming pay equity debates. National’s Nicola Willis defends the move as progressive, arguing against rigid leave rules and insisting fathers should be able to take time off if it suits their family. She also insists National’s leadership isn’t beholden to past votes, framing the policy as a forward-looking step. Separately, National has shut the door on partnering with the Opportunities Party, calling their tax stance unacceptable and vowing not to work with parties that would raise taxes on working people. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ec4074b44bcf0bd5